ABOUT UCLC
Who We Are
The Urban Church Leadership Center unites faith-fueled leaders, empowering and mobilizing us as agents of flourishing in Grand Rapids.
Creating Pathways Where Everyone Can Thrive
The Urban Church Leadership Center unites faith-fueled leaders, empowering and mobilizing us as agents of flourishing in Grand Rapids.
We are deeply invested in our city, aiming to see the place and its people thrive. Belonging, utilizing talents, and creating prosperous opportunities is fundamental to our vision. Aligned with the Christian principles of loving our neighbors and seeking community well-being, we prioritize stewardship, economic justice, radical generosity, and holistic well- being. By promoting economic mobility and wealth creation, we strive to positively impact the communities we serve.
Jeremiah 29:7
Why We Do What We Do
At the UCLC, we believe that when churches are strong, and families are healthy, communities will flourish. A flourishing community is filled with hope because of the freedom, opportunity, and sense of belonging that comes from purpose and meaning. In a flourishing community, every person is recognized as having inherent value, innate potential, and personal agency. We work towards that vision by supporting and equipping church leaders with training, coaching, and learning resources.
OUR VALUES
Innovation for Human Flourishing
We uplift community-driven solutions, embrace creativity and risk-taking, turn ideas into action, and celebrate diverse paths to prosperity.
Economic Mobility + Wealth Creation
We cultivate an abundance mindset, forge partnerships for opportunity, resolve real challenges, and create sustainable pathways to prosperity.
Love of City + Sense of Belonging
We boldly love our city, empower individuals to use their talents, foster inclusive spaces, and unite diverse voices for transformation.
Faith-Fueled Transformation
Rooted in Christian principles, we champion neighborly love, economic justice, radical generosity, and holistic discipleship.
Key Milestones in UCLC’s Journey
2007
- Kent County Congregation Study
- Gatherings Of Hope Initiative
- LCM
- Hispanic Ministry Certificate
- Family Leadership Initiative
2016-2017
- Pilot and Launch of Urban Church Leadership Center
2021
Gatherings of Hope sunsets and FLI merges with Urban Church Leadership Center
2023
- Sunset of FLI and initial shift to integrating Faith, Work and Economics into all programming.
2007
- Kent County Congregation Study
- Gatherings Of Hope Initiative
- LCM
- Hispanic Ministry Certificate
- Family Leadership Initiative
2021
Gatherings of Hope sunsets and FLI merges with Urban Church Leadership Center
- Pilot and Launch of Urban Church Leadership Center
2016-2017
- Sunset of FLI and initial shift to integrating Faith, Work and Economics into all programming.
2023
The UCLC Space
The UCLC is an independent organization housed on the second floor of the Cornerstone Theological Seminary, located on Cornerstone University’s campus. Within the UCLC are several warm and inviting spaces created for local Pastors and Church Leaders. The UCLC is intentionally designed as a place for church leaders to study, relax, fellowship, and learn.
The UCLC’s space includes a coffee and beverage station, an on-site library, a private lounge for meetings or quiet reflection, and additional study and meeting spaces. Pastors and Church Leaders in Greater Grand Rapids, please visit or contact the UCLC to learn more.
*The UCLC space should not be used for purposes intended for personal gain or profit. Usage requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis and evaluated based on alignment with the UCLC mission and vision.
UCLC Team
Artie M. Lindsay, Sr.
Flourishing Faith Communities Director
Beryl Richards
FLI Program Manager, Operations
Julián Guzmán
Flourishing Congregations Director
Julie Bos
Operations & Programs Director
Kailie Pillard
Communications & Program Support
Lynn Snelling
FLI Program Manager, Data & Evaluation
Mary Jones
FLI Program Manager
Rebeca Peña
Administrative Receptionist
Ukinya Hunter
FLI Program Manager
Our Partners
Thrive and Prosper
Thrive + Prosper is focused on an emerging movement to make Grand Rapids a better place to live. “Where it’s normal — not newsworthy — for everyone to thrive and prosper.”
Thrive and Prosper is a collective of local businesses, entrepreneurs, investors, philanthropists, community organizations, faith organizations and residents with
a shared vision.
Doug and Maria DeVos Foundation
For more than 30 years, the Doug & Maria DeVos Foundation has supported community changemakers and organizations to build thriving communities and make a long-lasting impact.
